<p>I know that there have been many posts addressing this issue. However, I'm still undecided about which college to attend and the deadline for deposits is approaching. People say that Stony is known more for its sciences and mathematics, but Bing is known more for its humanities, social sciences and business. There are others who say that Bing's science programs aren't so terrible that one wouldn't be prepared as a pre-medical student. Which school has the environment? People say that Stony Brook is pretty dead on weekends and doesn't have that great of a social life. People claim that Bing is more fun and has a stronger sense of community. However, is Stony Brook's living conditions truly that bad, or can one still be happy at Stony Brook and if so, how easily? Although Bing is apparently more fun, it is located in an isolated town. Does that mean fewer opportunities for research and internships? Also are the professors, especially the science professors, better at Stony or Bing? I hear that Bing's professors rely on TAs a lot. Is that true? Also which school offers better volunteer/researach opportunities?
As a student, yes, I want to go to a school that will prepare me well for what I want to do. However, I also want to enjoy myself. If I don't feel enthusiastic about the school, I feel that my grades will suffer, especially if the program is competitive. At a fun school, despite the competition, I feel that I'll have the motivation to do better, but who knows until then? Binghamton offers a crew and swimming club, both sports of which I am interested in. However, Stony only offers a crew club and I prefer swimming to crew.
Also, I can't help thinking about the possibility of being weeded out from the pre-med track. If so, wouldn't going to a school that is known for its excellent academics overall, not just science (Binghamton) would that be a better fit for me? Any feedback is appreciated.</p>